Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome: Clinical, biochemical, and genetic insights with emerging treatment opportunities

Abstract

Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS), also known as RSH syndrome, is an inborn error of cholesterol biosynthesis first described in 1964. Since then, significant advances have been made in understanding its pathophysiology, both during fetal development and postnatally. Cholesterol is a crucial lipid in the body, especially in the central nervous system, which accounts for nearly 25% of the body’s total cholesterol. Cholesterol deficiency in SLOS can lead to congenital malformations and severe neurodevelopmental disabilities. The biochemical and genetic bases of SLOS have been elucidated. Reduced or absent 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase enzymatic activity results not only in cholesterol deficiency but also in accumulation of 7-dehydrocholesterol, 8-dehydrocholesterol, and toxic oxysterol metabolites, which contribute to the pathophysiology of SLOS and correlate variably with the severity of its clinical symptoms. Despite decades of research, the clinical recognition of SLOS remains challenging because of the condition’s multisystemic nature and noteworthy phenotypic variability. This review provides an up-to-date summary of major research advances in the study of SLOS with a focus on clinical manifestations and biochemical and genetic findings, which, taken together, facilitate recognition and diagnostic confirmation. Additionally, we recap past and current efforts in therapeutic development and offer guidance for disease management.